Production Manager

RESPONSIBILITIES Production and Team Management Direct and coordinate all daily activities of the High Pressure Die Case (HPDC) production department to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives. Utilize internal R&D projects and prototype builds as a practical platform for process optimization, equipment testing, and team training during early New Product Introduction (NPI) phases.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Production and Team Management
  • Direct and coordinate all daily activities of the High Pressure Die Case (HPDC) production department to meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
  • Manage production staff, including preparing work schedules, assigning tasks, and ensuring adequate shift coverage.
  • Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as productivity, OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), quality yield, and on-time delivery. Provide daily and weekly performance reports to senior management.
  • Develop, implement, and enforce departmental policies, goals, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Supervise, mentor, and evaluate staff performance. Conduct regular performance reviews and support career development.
  • Lead training and coaching initiatives to elevate the technical competency, problem-solving skills, and operational discipline of the production team.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment, ensuring strict compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
  • Establish and oversee a comprehensive preventive maintenance (PM) schedule for all die-casting machinery and auxiliary equipment.
  • Manage OSHA and EPA requirements and reporting.
• Production Readiness
  • Overseeing the installation, commissioning, and acceptance of new die-casting hardware (machines, furnaces, robotics).
  • Actively participating in the retrofit and adaptation of existing factory facilities to the new center, planning equipment layout and material flow.
  • Developing and refining the full suite of production process documentation, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), control plans, and equipment protocols.
  • Establishing and maintaining a quality management system compliance with standards such as ISO 9001/IATF 16949, ensuring its effective implementation.
  • Leading the recruitment, onboarding, and systematic training of key production personnel to build a skilled and accountable team.
  • Utilize internal R&D projects and prototype builds as a practical platform for process optimization, equipment testing, and team training during early New Product Introduction (NPI) phases.
  • Systematically manage and execute the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) for future mass production projects. Ensure all processes are fully validated and capable of delivering compliant products before launch through rigorous documentation and capability studies.
  • Actively participate in Design for Manufacturing (DFM) reviews during new product development. Provide expert recommendations on part design, gating, tooling, and process parameters to optimize for die-casting.

REQUIREMENTS

• Thorough understanding of HPDC and supporting equipment.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and upkeep maintenance software.
• Understanding of OSHA, EPA, and other governing body regulations for industry.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS

• Demonstrable experience with flow/thermal/solidification modeling tools (MAGMA, FLOW 3D or equivalent).
• Practical experience with die design, gating, venting, runner systems, and tooling troubleshooting.
• Proficiency in robot programming and integration for casting cells (ABB, FANUC, KUKA, or similar).
• Strong project management skills and experience leading production teams.

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